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Getting an Extension

As an international student, you are granted a specific period of time to complete your degree. If you are unable to finish your degree requirements by that date*, you must apply for a program extension before your current document expires.

Eligibility:

You must have completed a full course load every semester, and otherwise be in valid F-1 or J-1 status

You have compelling and unavoidable academic or medical reasons for needing more time to complete your program

You must have sufficient funds to cover the remaining time needed to complete your requirements. If another individual, such as a family member, will sponsor you, that person must submit a proof of finances to prove her/his funding ability. J-1 students must also maintain health insurance during this remaining time

You must apply no later than three weeks before the expiration of your current I-20 or DS-2019.

How to apply:

1. Bring the following documents to the OGS during walk-in advising hours:

A letter from your undergraduate academic advisor or the graduate program director providing the following information:

Your name and NYU ID number

Your anticipated completion date (month /date /year)

Detailed reasons stating why you were unable to complete on time and need an extension, your remaining academic obligations, e.g., the number of credits remaining before you become eligible for your degree; or the amount of work remaining to complete your project, thesis, or dissertation, a semester-by-semester plan for completing your remaining obligations

Confirmation of continuing departmental financial aid or scholarship, if applicable

2. An OGS advisor will review your application and, if approved, will issue a new I-20 or DS-2019 to you with a new completion date.